1	a rough dry texture which sometimes flakes and may cause itching

2	calloused skin

3	cracked and fissured skin

4	red, chapped and sore skin

5	rawness and tightness

1	inherited factors

2	metabolic factors such as an under-active thyroid gland, or excessive weight loss

3	increasing age, resulting in decreased natural lubrication

4	cool weather, especially when windy or the humidity is low

5	air conditioning, central heating or sitting close to a fire or fan heater

6	excessive bathing, showering or swimming, especially in strongly chlorinated hot or cold water

7	contact with soap, detergents and solvents

8	frictional irritation and chapping.

1	Keep baths or showers short.

2	Use warm (not hot) water.

3	Use as little soap as possible. Limit its use to face, armpits, and genitals if you can. Try mild cleansers like Aveeno or Cetaphil or mild soaps like Neutrogena or Dove.

4	Dry your skin thoroughly but gently -- pat, DON'T rub.

5	Take baths or showers less often.

1	Use bath oils and moisturizers at least daily. Thick, greasy moisturizers work best. Avoid products with alcohol. Apply just after a bath or shower, when your skin is still damp.

2	Use a humidifier if the air is dry.

3	Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

1	Reduce how often you bath or shower, and use lukewarm water. Showers may be better than baths.

2	Replace standard soap with a substitute such as a synthetic detergent cleanser, water-miscible emollient, bath oil, anti-pruritic tar oil, etc.

3	Apply an emollient liberally and often, particularly after bathing, and when itchy. The drier the skin, the thicker this should be, especially on the hands.

4	Treat eczematous patches with a topical steroid for a 5 to 15 day course. These are prescribed by your doctor and should be only applied to the red and itchy areas.